Alcohol: 14%
Grape(s): 100% Nerello Mascalese
Location: Etna, Sicily, Italy
Tasting Notes: Ripe and fruity on the nose, with distinct spicy and balsamic nuances; on the palate, excellent volume, depth and structure, great mouthfeel and simultaneous finesse; clean, consistent and persistent finish.
Notes: 14 months in fine grain oak barrels, light toast. Natural malolactic fermentation
Food pairing: Pairs well with Pasta alla Norma (with eggplant) and red meat.
Winery Story: Pietradolce is a winery founded in 2005 by brothers Michele and Mario Faro, located on the northern slopes of Mount Etna in Sicily. The Faro family has a long history in Sicilian agriculture and viticulture. The winery's philosophy is rooted in a deep love for the land and respect for the ecosystem and traditions of the Etna region.
The winery's vineyards are located between 650 and 950 meters above sea level. The soil, a result of centuries of volcanic eruptions, is stony, light, and sandy, with abundant minerals. This unique terroir and the high-altitude climate are considered key ingredients for producing the winery's elegant wines.
A notable feature of Pietradolce is its collection of pre-phylloxera vines. Some of these vines, which are over 100 years old, were able to survive the phylloxera pest due to the sandy soil. The winery exclusively cultivates native grape varieties, including Nerello Mascalese, Nerello Cappuccio, and Carricante.
The winery uses a combination of traditional and modern techniques. For example, some wines are fermented in small, tulip-shaped concrete tanks and aged in French oak barrels. The cellar itself is designed with thick lava stone walls for natural insulation, and its roof features a hanging garden. The winery's new cellar also incorporates art and craftsmanship, with works by local artists inspired by the volcano.
